The prestigious 12th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) has been plunged into a significant crisis, with multiple film screenings abruptly cancelled in Thiruvananthapuram. The disruption stems from the festival's failure to secure mandatory censor exemption certificates from the central government, leaving audiences and delegates disappointed.
Certificate Shortage Halts Festival Screenings
Organisers confirmed that the screenings of seven films scheduled over the last two days were stalled due to the absence of the crucial paperwork. In total, 19 films currently lack permission to be shown at the festival. For Indian film festivals, movies that do not possess a regular Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) certificate require a special 'exemption certificate' from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The non-availability of these certificates has triggered the current logistical nightmare at IFFK 2025.
Outcry from Film Icons Over Classic Bans
The ban has notably affected internationally acclaimed classics, sparking anger and disbelief from veteran filmmakers. Legendary director Adoor Gopalakrishnan expressed strong displeasure over the banning of seminal works like 'The Hour of the Furnaces' and 'Battleship Potemkin'.
Speaking to ANI, Gopalakrishnan criticized the decision, stating that these films are cinematic textbooks studied by generations. "It's like a joke to ban it because almost all of us have these films at home. We keep it as a textbook. So, you cannot stop," he said. He described the move as a "sheer lack of understanding" of cinema and urged authorities to reconsider, arguing that decisions should not be based solely on film titles.
Echoing this sentiment, renowned director Kamal voiced his disappointment and anger. "Very disappointing and very much angry with this ban. They have banned the movie Battleship Potemkin. Why? Classic. The history of the cinema starts from Battleship Potemkin," Kamal told ANI. The cancellation of such foundational works has caused considerable inconvenience to the delegates and film enthusiasts who travelled to attend the festival.
Organisers Scramble for a Resolution
In response to the growing controversy, festival organisers are reportedly in urgent talks with government authorities to resolve the certification issue at the earliest. The aim is to salvage the remaining schedule and restore screenings of the affected films. This incident has cast a shadow over one of India's most celebrated film festivals, raising questions about the bureaucratic hurdles facing cultural events.
The disruption at IFFK highlights the ongoing tension between artistic expression and regulatory frameworks within India's cinematic landscape. The outcome of the organisers' negotiations will be closely watched by the national and international film community.
